The KRAS gene is a part of several signaling pathways which mediate a cellular response on growth factors. The gene is localized in the chromosomal region 12p12.1.
The product of the KRAS gene is the protein with GTPase activity, which is located on the inner side of the cell membrane. Point mutations in the KRAS gene play a significant role in carcinogenesis. They are responsible for the abidance of protein in its active GTP-bound form. The consequence is a permanent signaling and uncontrolled cell proliferation. Point mutations in the KRAS gene are the most frequently situated in codons 12, 13 or 61.
The KRAS gene mutations are often found in various human tumors. They are common in pancreatic carcinoma, colorectal carcinoma, lung adenocarcinoma, bladder tumors etc..
Examination
We perform the examination of the KRAS gene with a focus on the detection of activating mutations in codons 12, 13, 59, 60, 61, 117 and 146. We use PCR and reverse hybridisation using KRAS XL StripAssay (ViennaLab) kit.
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Fig.1Sequenceogram with KRAS mutations causing amino acid substitution G13D.
Analytical sensitivity and specificity of the sequencing: 99%.
Limitations:
IIn the case of the analysis of somatic mutations the mutations will not be detected, if the altered cell line is not represented by at least 20% (sequencing), or 1% (reverse hybridization).
References
- Ellis CA, Clark G. The importance of being K-Ras. Cell Signal. 2000 Jul;12(7):425-34. Review.
